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Often the trickiest part of designing a space is finding the right layout. In our “Layout Guides” series you’ll find layout solutions for rooms of all shapes and sizes. From the square-shaped to the narrow to the just plain awkward, this is your one-stop shop for layout ideas that work.

The Space: A 150-square-foot bedroom that is square-shaped with seemingly limited furniture arrangement and design possibilities.

The Challenge: Creating a layout design for a boxy bedroom that can accommodate a queen-sized bed, dressing area, and work space with a custom desk. All while keeping the room from feeling overcrowded or dorm-like.

Idea #1: The L-Shaped Layout

Layout idea #1 uses what we call the L-shaped arrangement where furniture is lined up along two walls of a square bedroom. This creates a cozy corner, opens up the rest of the room, and makes the space feel less boxy.

This approach is about maximizing storage and vertical space to balance the unfurnished half of the room.

Why It Works:

The bed does not face face the door, which creates walking room and a nice flow. This layout follows the rules of good bedroom feng shui.

The desk by the door is the ultimate multipurpose piece. It functions as a catchall for keys and random little things, a work surface for sending emails, and a vanity for getting ready.

Mini dressers as nightstands give you lots of extra storage for books, sheets, and blankets.

Placing a bookcase in the corner makes use of vertical space for storage and takes up very little floor space.

This Is Great If You…

Are looking to design a guest room that’s more grown-up feeling. This arrangement gives the space a hotel-like look and feel.

Share this bedroom with another person. The layout provides enough storage and functions for two.

See the layout idea #1 in 360!

Idea #2: The Long Layout

Layout idea #2 is all about a sectioned approach that clearly defines sleep and work areas.

Add a sense of spaciousness to the room by lining up the bed and the desk in a row along the same wall. This also helps create good flow as soon as you walk in the door.

In this layout, there’s not a lot of storage space, but also a dedicated office area that makes the room feel like a functional live/work studio space.

Why It Works:

The desk tucked away in the corner makes a stylish office corner. This placement also takes advantage of the natural light from the window right above.

There’s more room for a nice comfy chair. It can be pulled up as a desk chair or moved and used as a reading chair anywhere in the room.

You definitely get more open floor space in with this layout since it keeps one side open with lots of walking room.

This Is Great If You…

Want a studio that has distinct spaces for all your activities, rather than feeling like one open room.

Don’t need a lot of space to host people in your studio apartment.

Live with a partner and want a space where you can cohabitate with a little more privacy and space to do your own thing.